4 out of 4 stars
Share This Review
Riders on the Storm by Richard Sparacino is a supernatural Crime/Thriller that touches on religion, science, human behaviours and loyalty. Richard Sparacino has a deep interest in the human make-up and what makes us tick on a behavioural and emotional level. He has studied psychology and this shows throughout the book, giving a realistic feel to the supernatural part of the story.
Detective Santini and his partner Detective Salvo have been friends and have worked together for a very long time in New York city. They trust each other and are fiercely loyal. However, New York city is being battered by an unusual storm that is stirring uncertainty and fear into the hearts of those in and around the city. Murders, suicides and strange 'accidents' are occurring. Santini discovers he is dreaming of them before they happen. On top of this, a recurring apocalyptic dream keeps him up at night. It is exhausting him. so, deeply concerned, his partner sends him to a psychologist, believing the work he does is starting to affect him. It is not easy tracking down murderers every day. Dr Kelly Jordan studies his sleep but the dark entity that is causing all this negative emotion sees Santini as a threat and must stop him. When they realise something very real is going wrong, the three work together to go against an evil they barely believe in before it destroys the whole planet.
Riders on the Storm is a brilliant book focusing on the morals and the deep nature of human beings. An evil entity finds humankind to have the most negative emotions and reactions and has manipulated and fed off them for centuries. Accumulating it all to use in one final moment which I can not address as it is a massive spoiler.
The plot is well paced, unveiling hints at the best moments to keep the reader engrossed. There was never any fluff or conversations that were just there to fill a few pages. Everything moved the story forward at the right time. The author writes from several POVs which gave a 'film-like' feeling while reading. Every character is well developed with individual personalities and played out their roles in the book beautifully. In fact, I could imagine every scene as if it really could have made a good film.
The story takes us through the worst of mankind to the best. It deals with religion, introducing a new take on it. It weaves science through the religion, letting both exist in equal importance which I think is very important in this day and age. I believe that the ending of this book shows us how we should be as a people, as those living together on one planet. The author has poured his visons, his morals and his beliefs in to the book.
I rate Riders of the Storm a 4 out of 4 stars. It is well edited, deals with true issues in the world today and gives it a supernatural spin. One character gave such a moving speech it stirred emotions in my chest that most likely won't budge for a few days. I would recommend this book to more than crime and thriller lovers, but to those who enjoy new ideas, who like science and religion and to those who are interested in the human psyche.
******
Riders On The Storm
View: on Bookshelves
Like Vickyoreo86's review? Post a comment saying so!
